Rory McIlroy has sparked fury among golf fans after skipping media duties for four consecutive days at the PGA Championship.
The Northern Irishman, who recently claimed victory at the Masters, endured a disappointing week at Quail Hollow, finishing three over par.
Despite high expectations following his major championship breakthrough and playing on a course where he has previously enjoyed success, McIlroy failed to make an impact during the tournament.
Many had anticipated a strong showing from the 36-year-old at Quail Hollow, a venue where he has won four times on the PGA Tour.
Rory McIlroy surprised many as he struggled all week
Reuters
However, the recently crowned Masters champion struggled throughout the competition.
His disappointing performance resulted in a three over par finish across his four rounds, well below the standard expected from the five-time major winner.
McIlroy's preparation for the second major of the year was significantly disrupted when his driver was found to be "non-conforming".
JUST IN: Scottie Scheffler reveals he broke same rule as Rory McIlroy after winning PGA Championship
This unexpected setback forced the Northern Irishman into making a late equipment change just before the tournament began.
The driver issue appears to have had a notable impact on his performance throughout the championship, contributing to his struggles on a course where he has historically performed well.
READ MORE: Gary Lineker quits BBC and will not be around for 2026 World Cup after anti-Semitism row
Scottie Scheffler took the win at Quail Hollow
Reuters
And McIlroy's decision to avoid media duties, and questions on the subject, has drawn criticism from golf fans on social media.
One user commented: "This is why Rory has a reputation... He's a great golfer but a bit of a diva, especially when things are not going right for him."
A second said: "Rory McIlroy didn't meet with the media one time during the PGA Championship. His lone presser came on Wednesday. Badlook."
And a third wrote: "Respect so much about Rory McIlroy’s career, especially how he has handled fame, but going 4 consecutive days @PGAChampionship without talking to media is shirking responsibility. Might as well talk now and avoid the awkward inquisition at next tourney stop. Bad decision."
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Not all reactions were negative, however. Another fan offered a more sympathetic view: "Stop giving them the option to decline.
"No other sport does that. Make them come talk, it's part of the game, sports are for fans at the end of the day. Can't blame Rory for not talking if they allow him to do it."
Rory McIlory had to change his driver as it was 'non-conforming'
Reuters
McIlroy now has just under a month to regroup before the US Open, which begins on Thursday, 12 June at Oakmont Country Club in Texas.
The upcoming major will be particularly significant for the golfer, who will be looking to redeem himself after last year's disappointment at Pinehurst.
During that dramatic final round, McIlroy surrendered the lead to LIV Golf competitor Bryson DeChambeau, adding another chapter to his major championship struggles before his recent Masters triumph.
